Kazakhstan’s vast steppes, futuristic cities, and deep nomadic heritage make it an extraordinary destination, where understanding how to handle money ensures a hassle-free experience. Whether you’re exploring the modern skyline of Nur-Sultan, hiking in the stunning Tian Shan mountains, or experiencing traditional Kazakh hospitality, this guide covers everything you need to know—what currency to bring, the best ways to get money and currency in Kazakhstan (Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT)), cash safety tips, and essential dos and don’ts. With these insights, you’ll avoid unnecessary fees and fully enjoy Kazakhstan’s unique blend of old and new.
How to pay in Kazakhstan – cash or card?
In Kazakhstan, merchants accept both cash and card, but cash is more popular. The official currency is the Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT).
You can use cash for:
Small Shops and Bazaars: While many establishments in major cities accept cards, smaller shops and traditional markets may prefer cash transactions.
Rural Areas: In remote regions, access to card payment facilities can be limited, making cash essential.
Public Transportation: Local buses and certain taxi services often operate on a cash-only basis.
Tips and Gratuities: While not always expected, leaving tips in cash is appreciated for exceptional service.
Tourist Attractions: Some local vendors at tourist sites may only accept cash for souvenirs or refreshments.
You can use card for:
Hotels and Resorts: Major accommodations in cities like Astana and Almaty widely accept Visa and MasterCard.
Restaurants and Cafés: Established dining venues, especially in urban centers, facilitate card payments.
Retail Stores: Shopping centers and supermarkets commonly accept credit and debit cards.
Tourist Attractions: Many landmarks and museums, such as the Nur Alem Museum of Future Energy and the National Museum of the Republic of Kazakhstan, accept card payments for entry fees.
Transportation Services: Ride-sharing apps like Yandex Go accept card payments; however, some users have reported issues with foreign cards.
What’s the best currency to take to Kazakhstan
Kazakistani Tenge (KZT) is typically the best currency to take if you are traveling to Kazakhstan. Paying or withdrawing cash in the local currency comes with the least amount of fees, sometimes fee-free too. Some accept US Dollars but exchange rate might not be favorable.
While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in urban areas, some rural regions and smaller establishments may prefer cash payments. Therefore, it’s advisable to carry some KZT in cash to avoid inconveniences.
Other currencies, such as Euros or British Pounds, are not widely accepted here.
Where to get currency in Kazakhstan
There are 3 main ways to get cash in Kazakhstan. They are:
- ATMs, or
- Currency exchange, or
- Money transfer & local pick-up
Types of cards to swipe in Kazakhstan
Visa and Mastercard transactions are commonly accepted for swiping. You might also find some places that accept Amex and other cards, albeit less frequently.
Types of cards at ATMs in Kazakhstan
If you’re withdrawing money in Kazakhstan from an ATM, ATMs commonly accept Visa, Mastercard, and Union Pay cards. One bank ATM only accepts Visa cards. Others like Maestro, Plus, Cirrus, JCB, American Express, UnionPay, Diners, Discover and Rupay cards are generally not accepted.
Should I exchange currency before travelling to Kazakhstan
Bringing a small amount of Kazakhstani Tenge (KZT) before traveling can be useful for immediate expenses like taxis, tips, and small purchases. However, exchange rates outside Kazakhstan are often less favorable, and some foreign banks may not stock KZT.
Withdrawing KZT from ATMs in Kazakhstan is a convenient option, as ATMs are widely available in airports, cities, and tourist areas. Most ATMs accept Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, Plus, and Maestro cards, but check with your bank for international withdrawal fees.
It’s best to exchange money in Kazakhstan at banks or authorized exchange bureaus, as they offer better rates than airports or hotels.
Carrying a mix of cash and cards is advisable. While card payments are accepted in most urban areas, cash is still commonly used, especially in rural areas, small markets, and taxis.
Where to withdraw money in Kazakhstan
You can withdraw money in Kazakhstan at leading bank ATMs in the country. The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Kazakhstan are those owned by popular banks such as:
- Halyk Bank,
- Kaspi Bank,
- Bereke Bank and
Nurbank.
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Kazakhstan.
Where to exchange currency in Kazakhstan
You can exchange currency in Kazakhstan at licensed currency exchange offices, pawnshops and banks branches.
Notable exchange Bureaus like MiG currency exchange offices, are available in major cities.
Banks: Commercial banks throughout Kazakhstan offer currency exchange services.
You can find good currency exchanges in Kazakhstan using the ATM Fee Saver app—it will guide you to the nearest currency exchange on the map. The app helps you with forex places in 100+ countries, including Kazakhstan.
Your foreign currency banknotes must be clean, crisp, and have no signs of wear or tear.
Avoid Airport Exchanges and no-fee exchange offices: Currency exchange services at airports often have less favorable rates and higher fees. It’s generally better to exchange money in the city for better rates and lower charges.
Is carrying cash in Kazakhstan safe?
Carrying cash in Kazakhstan is generally safe, but standard precautions are advisable. Petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur, particularly in crowded areas, public transportation, and tourist spots. Carry only the cash you need for daily expenses and keep your valuables secure.
Kazakhstan has specific regulations regarding the import and export of currency. You can carry foreign and national currency no more than $10,000 USD. You must declare amounts more than this to customs authorities. Failure to declare amounts over $10,000 can result in penalties, including fines and confiscation of the excess amount.
Is it better to use debit or credit cards or pay by cash in Kazakhstan
Use a card if it is fee-free i.e. your bank does not charge any fees to swipe the card, when the merchant / POS also does not impose any extra charge to use a card, you need to use the insurance of the card, don’t want to block cash of large purchases and card’s swipe fees are lower than withdrawal fees.
Pay by cash by withdrawing cash from ATM or exchanging currency where – fees on ATM withdrawals are lesser than fees on swiping cards, you don’t want to leave any digital footprint of your expenses, it is convenient and easier to conduct transactions.
